Dating Games(48)

Once I step into the bath and lean against the porcelain, tension rolls off me as all my worries about what this afternoon may bring evaporate. So what if these people don’t think I fit in? That’s never bothered me before. It’s just a few months. After that, I’ll never have to see any of them again.

Basking in the serenity of my luxurious bath and surroundings, I all but lose track of time until I notice the water’s gone tepid and my skin’s begun to prune. I shave quickly and grudgingly step out of the tub. After toweling myself off, I set about readying myself for my first event of the summer. I’m surprised how well the bathing suit Dana selected fits. Then again, she was rather meticulous in measuring me. I expected nothing less.

After applying copious amounts of sunscreen to my fair skin, I accentuate my natural peachy hue with a hint of blush. Then, as per Dana’s instructions, I smooth my signature red lipstick on my lips. It brings together the vintage look. I tie a band around my head, knotting it at my nape, allowing the excess material to fall in front of my chest. I complete the look by draping a sheer white, floor-length coverup dress over my body.

When I step in front of the mirror in the closet, I gawk at my reflection. I still look like myself, but I don’t feel like myself. Normally, I loathe wearing bathing suits. That’s the benefit of living in the city — there’s no real reason to wear one. But Dana chose one that accents what I consider my best assets — my hips and chest — without revealing too much skin. If she was able to work her magic on selecting the perfect two-piece, I can only imagine the gown she chose for tomorrow night’s gala.

Curious, I spin from the mirror and head to the binder, about to turn the page to see exactly what I’ll be wearing, when there’s a knock on the door. Assuming it’s Camille to check on me, I simply call out, “Come on in.”

As I round the corner into the bedroom to meet her, I stop in my tracks when Julian stands in front of me. All six-foot-four of pure Julian Gage. Sinewy muscles. Consuming stare. Perfect lips turned into a subtle hint of a smile. He wears a white, short-sleeved, button-down shirt paired with blue checkered swim trunks. Yet again, it’s another new look for him. Is there anything this man can’t wear and make absolutely delicious? I doubt it. His skin appears darker than a few days ago, the ends of his hair lighter, kissed by the sun.

“Remind me to give Dana a raise,” he murmurs as he circles me.

If anyone else regarded me in such a way, I’d probably feel like a prize pig on display during the annual county fair. That’s not the case with Julian. He makes me feel coveted, admired…beautiful, something I never thought I would by wearing a two-piece bathing suit.

“A very large raise.” Instantly, his hand clutches my hip and he drags my body against his. I gasp, taken aback by the gesture, particularly after our phone call Saturday.

“We’re back to playing nice, are we?”

“Playing nice? What do you mean?”

I lower my head, feeling more exposed than I already am. “Nothing.”

His thumb and forefinger grip my chin, forcing my eyes back to his, his deep pools of blue piercing me. “I don’t keep secrets and don’t expect you to, either. It’s important we’re both honest with each other about this arrangement. It’s the only way it will work.”

“It’s nothing,” I say once more, pushing away from him. I fold my arms over my chest.

“Guinevere…” His voice is a warning.

“You were…different when you called on Saturday. I guess I wasn’t sure which version of Julian Gage I’d see today.” I shrug half-heartedly, not wanting him to think his demeanor was a big deal, and turn from him.

“Which Julian Gage? You don’t mean…” He trails off. I glance over my shoulder as he closes his eyes, dragging his fingers through his hair. When he looks up, he catches my gaze, his expression apologetic. “You thought I was short with you because I’d gotten you to agree to my proposition and no longer had to pretend to like you?”

“The thought crossed my mind.” I face him, placing my hands on my hips.

He approaches me and tilts my head back. There’s a power and earnestness as he stares deeply into my eyes. Unwavering. Determined. Honest.

“Listen to me, Guinevere. Everything I told you Friday is true. I am profoundly attracted to you. I was the instant I laid eyes on you. And I’ve only become more so with each second I spend in your presence. I’m sorry if I made you feel like you’re anything but the beautiful, charming, witty woman I’m thrilled to spend the next few months with.” He holds my gaze for a moment longer before stepping back, releasing his hold on me. “I was working Saturday. We all have our faults, and one of mine is being unable to switch from business mode to…pleasure mode.”

I laugh slightly as the stress about the situation rolls off me. “And what exactly is ‘pleasure mode’?” I smirk, chewing on my bottom lip.

He leans toward me, his voice a low growl. “Keep sucking on that lip and you’ll find out.”

Bringing my hand to his chest, I gently push him away. “I thought you said kissing’s for amateurs.”

“Who said anything about kissing you?”

I open my mouth to argue, but snap it shut. He’s certainly got me there.

“That’s what I thought.” He flashes a devious smile before straightening his posture, extending his hand. “So, are you ready to convince the world you’re my girlfriend?”